Effectiveness of a group for parentally bereaved children

Abstract

Abstract This study investigated the effects of a 6-week support group for middle school parentally bereaved children on self-esteem, depression, and problem behavior as well as self-beliefs about abilities to cope with loss. The Solomon four group design was used with data analyzed by using a two way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine the effect of the intervention as well as any interaction and for pretest effects. No statistically significant differences were found. Self-reports of group members and observations of the group leader suggested that the group did have a positive effect on members, Limitations are cited, and suggestions for future research are discussed.